70 - Pour a Little Salt, We were Never Here

Here comes another song from that wonderful show, Chuck.

From Season 2, Episode 3 titled "Chuck vs. the Breakup"

It's a great song for Autumn.  It has a mournful finality to it, but also that little twinge of hope.  Again, that's what my ears hear.  The almost acoustic feel of this song really helps.  It's vocally driven with a guitar in the background.

Song 70
        "Skinny  Love" from the album, For Emma, Forever Ago, by Bon Iver

On reading the lyrics, the song seems odd at best, dark at worst.  But the tone and music paint it with a lighter touch.  I can't tell if that's deceptive or genius.  This is not a song that moves me because of the lyrics.  It's the music, the tone and the imagery it paints.

It's another one of those songs that makes me think of driving through the woods and countryside.  Late in Autumn, with heavy, cold, rain plopping steadily and slowly on the windows.

It's not much, but there it is.


grace, peace + hope
-Jesse

69 - Your Light's Always Shining On

I just can't get away from this band.

Mumford & Sons is a band that just gets under my skin.  In the best possible way.  From the sweeping songs like Babel and Holland Road to the simple ones like today's choice.  There are few bands that really feel like a part of me.  And I know that's an odd thing to say, but the music and lyrics to almost all of their songs resonates deeply with in me.

I am  forever grateful to my boss out in Illinois for sharing them with me.  Thanks Richie!

Song 69

        "Reminder" Mumford & Sons, Babel

I love to sing along with this song in the car.  I don't sing well, so...I just kinda crackle along, but hey, the people riding with me don't seem to mind.  Oh wait, no, that doesn't happen.

This song kinda breaks my heart a little, and sometimes I need that.  But it has this whole upswing of hope, which if you've been reading, is very important to me.  So heartbreaking but hopeful.  Yes please.

Then there is the plea for his love to not fade away, as it is the beacon that leads him.  There are far worse things to follow than love.  I don't hear this song just as a man loving a woman, or a memory of her.  But that love is what he doesn't want to fade.  The ability to love.

Least that's what hear.  Enjoy some lyrical beauty...

A constant reminder of where I can find her
A light that might give up the way
Is all that I'm asking for
without her I'm lost
But my love, don't fade away

 Alright folks, that's it.  Go forth, enjoy.  Share.  Love.

grace, peace + hope
-Jesse

68 - Crack Open Scrolls of Ancient Dreams

This is another artist recommended to me by my amazing, intelligent, lovely, funny, sarcastic, dry framing/lawyerish friend, Jess.  She's introduced me to quite a few artists over the past few years.  And several of them have made their way into this series.

It was around this time last year...I think, that I first heard of this band.  And this particular song.  I don't remember where we were going, but we go in her vehicle and she wanted to share them.  And I really liked it.  Great sound, great lyrics.  Very good music.

Song 68
        "Let There Be" from Gungor's Ghosts Upon the Earth

This song just starts of with a quite calm intro.  It slowly builds to amazing crescendo.  The vocals sing in beautiful poetry about Creation.  There is an ethereal glory to these lyrics and sounds.  The building and developing of the song rises and intensifies gradually over the song.

Regardless of what you believe or don't believe...this song is captivating.  It's not so much a normal song as a scene or rhythm to life.  The whole build up leads to one almost quite word.  There is description of darkness, and angels, and scrolls.  But the word that triggers the explosion of sound is the rise of repeated refrains of, Let there be...let there be...let there be..............let there be...light

The music erupts like a star being birthed in darkness.

It gives me chills.  Right now...goose bumps all over.  It's chilling and electrifying.  And as I've said early in this series, Autumn feels like the conception of Spring, and the beginning of all the new and life to come.  What better representation of that that light breaking forth for the first time.

Let there be....


grace, peace + hope-Jesse

67 - Heliocentric

This song came from a movie.

It is a pretty good movie.

Matt Damon.  Scarlet Johansen.  That guy from Wings.  Robert the Bruce.  Dakota Fanning's little sister.  Some other people.

The movie is We Bought a Zoo.

Go now.  Watch it.  Come back later, when you're happy.

Seriously, this movie was one of the most uplifting, heart-warming stories I've seen in a good long while.  It's a family dramedy about a young widowed father who relocates his family out of the city to start over.  They just happen to buy a zoo instead of just a house.

Damon and Johansen are not names that normally get me to the theater.  And, well, they weren't who got me to this movie either.  Cameron Crowe was.  The director.  I've liked pretty much all his movie except the big one, Jerry Maguire.  I went to see this last December and loved it.

To be honest, I didn't even really notice the music.  Not until the blu-ray came out and I was watching special features, and heard the music to that...wondering if it was from the movie.  It was.  And it's amazing.  Then a feature hit about the music and artist and I was sold.

Song 67
        "Sun" from the We Bought a Zoo soundtrack by Jónsi

All the music on this album are great.  This song sticks out to me the most.  It was the music on the blu-ray that really grabbed me.  Sadly, it's the shortest song on the album.  But it's perfect.  I don't know if it would have the same impact if it just kept going.

Jónsi is part of a group called Sigur Rós.  They are from Iceland.  Cool huh?

I can't really explain their sound.  Just go sample the movie album and if you like, check out Sigur Rós too.

The imagery this song paints in my mind's eye is amazing.  I'm not going to share.  This one is for me.  But if you close your eyes when you listen...let your mind embrace the song and see what scene and or story it paints for you.

And there it is.  Song 67.  Only 23 left...


grace, peace + hope
-Jesse

66 - Truth Spoke in Whispers Will Tear You Apart

I had to go to Africa to hear this song.

Don't let that confuse you though.  It's something you can find easily on iTunes.  And it's not African.  Not in the sense that it was made there or by someone from there, or with any influences of Africa.  I suppose music theorists could...but that's neither here nor there.

I heard this tune in our vans whilst driving across the landscape of South Africa.  We would take turns sharing music as we bounced and jostled our way around.  Taking in views of vast plains or huge ridges looming on one side of the vehicle or the other.  And since it's winter when we go, it's usually barren and chilly...like our Autumns.  Well, for the northern states anyway.  One of our team members had this, among other songs, on her playlist.  I'm quite glad she shared.  It has stuck with me since the first time she played it.  (Thanks Patsy!)

There is just a sweet sentiment running through this, and it is quite a calming, and...well, humbling song.

Song 66
       "Humble Me" from Norah Jones on her album Feels Like Home

Funny.  Until I just looked at the album name to search for the link, I never took note of title.  It warmed my heart on this chilly night, as Africa certainly feels like home to me.  I can't believe it's been 4 months since I was there.  It feels like an eternity.   I'm longing for going home to stay. 

All in good time.

For now, this song. 

Songs that have a message of faith or genuine pleas to God, especially when from musicians you wouldn't expect that from, tend to surprise and get me to listen.  The simple guitar that picks and strums it's way though this song just instantly set the mellow mood.

Jones' lyrics come in with an earnest gentleness.  And she just pulls me in.  I generally have to skip this song on a playlist if I'm in the wrong mood, because it just strikes me so hard.  And sometimes I want to stay in that mood.  I should probably not skip this song at those times.

The picking of the guitar just echoes what I've said countless times on here about painting imagery of falling leaves and barren trees.  It's just a quite plea from this woman for help...that somehow strengthens her.  At least that's how I hear it.

Be humbled.


grace, peace + hope
-Jesse

65 - All That You Are is Not, All That You Was Forgot

About half a decade ago there was this great show.  It was the story of four young Irish brothers in New York City.  They all had their different roles and personalities.  But they were Irish, in an Italian controlled corner of the city.  They, and the show were..The Black Donnellys.

This show was fantastic.  It was gripping and funny. Full of drama and suspense.  Not to mention it was a show about four Irish brothers.  Reminded me of my family.  Except for the living in NYC and getting involved in turf wars with Italians.  But the brotherhood is what kept be interested.  To see how they interacted, grew, changed, and loved each other.

Cause no matter what, at the end of the day they were still family.

They featured a band in a promo spot that really caught my attention, and I think they used a few songs in the show.  The one that leaps at me the most is

Song 65
        "Lost" from Canadian Celtic rock band, Mudmen, and their self-titled debut.

This song totally makes me think of Autumn.  It just has this mournful wail to it that takes me into the cold barren woods.  Or, cold barren streets of NYC.  Lyrics speak to change.  That the new things don't bring answers, and the new is lost.

When you slip into knowing that nothing is going to kill you faster than life
In the end you're just moments away
From the chances you thought you might take

The music on this song just carries a mournful hue of loss and fading memory.  Like life is slipping away.  Or at least the life the person thought they had.  That might sound kinda depressing, and well...it is, but you can spin that around.

Don't just mourn for what is past.  Take joy and hope in knowing that there is room for new.  It might take a while, but you'll realize that the stuff you miss, was once new...before it became familiar and comfortable.

Alright, I'm getting a bit to distracted here.  Enjoy the song, and enjoy your day!

grace, peace + hope-Jesse

62/63/64 - Triumverate

This first song was a great one to come across.  I think someone recommended the band, don't remember who, but I remember it was Sept-Dec 2006.  I was living on the front porch of a house in Lockport, IL.  It was finished and and actual room, it was an interesting and fun few months living there while the house was getting built.

This song, and album really struck me.  It was an cool mix of sounds and ideas in one of those 'concept' albums.  It tells a story of a future broken and ravaged by war.  But I really enjoy this song for it's message.  It goes well with the Kinks song I posted recently, Love It All.

Song 62
        "A Little's Enough" from the debut album, We Don't Leave a Whisper, by Angels & Airwaves

This song ties into the whole theme of love this week.  But with another facet.  Check out these lyrics:

Like God himself is coming home to say

I, I can do anything
If you want me here
And I can fix any thing
If you let me near

Then...

The cure is if you let in just a little more love
I promise you this, a little's enough

 The Autumn connection is primarily because of when I first heard it.  But it works well in this season regardless.  There is the driving, building sound and it's infused with hope.  I really enjoy this song.  So, let in a little more love...it's enough.

--


Now, onto the next.  Another wonderful song about love.  A little more somber, but I find more...penetrating.  It just seeps into my bones.  Ugh.  No pun intended...(you'll see when you get to the title)

This is from that band Elbow who I've explained how I came across them much earlier in this series.  So...here is the next song!

Song 63
       "The Bones of You" from Elbow's The Seldom Seen Kid

I'm not really sure where the relationship he sings about is.  I mean, is it over?  Is it struggling?  I don't know.  But it's got him hard.  And that line, "I love the bones of you," is just a strong, striking expression.  Which shortly after hearing this song I started watching the Scottish epic Rob Roy, in which his wife says that line to him.

To love some one that much.  To their very bones.  That while they may frustrate or upset you, the love remains.  It's powerful stuff.  But I believe love is a choice, and not just a random emotion that we fall in and out of.  That's to flimsy and fickle.  It doesn't stoke the fires of adventure and history.  It doesn't hold up the ideals that love can conquer all...if it's fleeting and flighty.  (Lots of good F adjectives in there...)

So, take a listen.  It's a good track from a great band.  The long laboring notes and vocals are what relate this to Autumn for me.  Especially this late in the season.  It conjures up images of barren trees, and dry scratching leaves skittering about the ground...but with a purpose in mind and a destination.

--

Lastly.  For today, and this run on love...(and there was much rejoicing in the audience.  yay.)

This song is much more up beat than the previous two.  And the last song on love should be.  Love isn't just a labourious quest.  Full of struggles to understand and be understood.  I think that's a part of it, but love is ultimately a deeper friendship.  It's making someone family by choice.  I think that sometimes means the bond is thicker than blood.  It has to be.

Song 64
        "Best Friend" from the wonderful band Weezer on their album Make Believe

It might be a little cheesy, but in the best possible ways.  This the person making a fool of themselves in public to make the person they love smile.  Not showing off, but sensing what the other needs and going for it with all their heart.

The lyrics are simple and to the point.  Easy and fun, but full of heart and sincerity.

You are such a blessing and I wont be messing
with the one thing that brings light to all of my darkness

You are my best friend
and I love you, and I love you
Yes I do

This is the best kind of love.  Rather, the best kind of love has this as firmly planted foundation.  I'm all for the rush of new romance and all that stuff.  But that is the allure of a new relationship.  It's fun and exciting, but for me...the best part is down the road.  When this becomes the reality. 

It makes me think of that scene in the movie Abyss, when the guy is sleeping and snoring, and the wife just tell him to roll over, and in his sleep he does.  Maybe I'm remembering that wrong, been a while since I saw it.  But that is the scene from that movie that stuck with me more than anything.


Alright folks.  I've kept you far too long.  Go.  Enjoy your Saturday!  (or whatever day you read this!)


grace, peace, + hope
-Jesse

61 - One Step One Prayer

I can't pin down the time I heard this artist for the first time.  I know I was still in high school, 9th or 10th grade at Red Land.

She was (and still is) one of my all time favorite female singers.  She has one of the most unique voices and ways of singing.  And most of her songs are very poetic and full of depth.

This particular song, and album, I didn't pick up (or download) until around Christmas 2008.

Song 61
        "Torch" from the album Flavors of Entanglement by Alanis Morissette

No one sings like Alanis does.  Her odd inflections and emphasis are unique and incredible.  This song instantly jumped at me when I downloaded the album.  The gentle piano intro, the slow build throughout the song.  The music is simply wonderful and calming.

All this week the songs (starting with Song 60) are about love.  While yesterday's was about enduring till the end.  Today's song has a more melancholy flavor.  The title gives it all away.  But there is a tenderness to this song.

The longing and reflection back on what was.  To me, this song sounds more like the person she carried the torch for has passed away.  I don't think that's the actual case, but that is the imagery I get.  That there was something so final to the way things ended that she had no choice but to carry it on before laying it down.

These are the things that I miss
These are not times for the weak of heart
These are the days of raw despondence
And I never dreamed I would have to lay down my torch for you like this

And listening to her list off the things that she does miss.  It near breaks your heart because they are such common and ordinary things.

I miss your smell and your style
And your pure abiding way
Miss your approach to life
And your body in my bed
Miss your take on anything
And the music you would play
Miss cracking up and wrestling
Our debriefs at end of day

It's not the big gestures.  The bold actions and heroic moments.  It's the little things.  The ones that fill up a lifetime.  "miss your take on anything," I mean, that floors me, to just want to know what the other person though about...whatever.

This song moves me.  I never want to experience a loss like this for whatever reason.  But I hope I get the opportunity to love like this.


grace, peace + hope
-Jesse

60 - When the Morning Light Explodes

I'm not ashamed to admit I watch sappy dramatic rom-coms like P.S. - I Love You.  Some of them are like Twinkies (R.I.P.)   Full of air and fluff that you could compact it and fit two more in the same amount of space.  PS is not one of those movies.

But I'm not here to talk about the movie.  If you have a desire, go rent it and enjoy a sweet story about a young woman coming to grips with the loss of her spouse.

In this movie is a song.  One I may have heard at some point, somewhere in time.  It set a fantastic tone for the movie and really captured the emotion the audience needed at that moment.

Song 60
        "Love You 'Till the End" by The Pogues from their last album Pogue Mahone
                                                                                                                                      (chuckles, it's funny if you know what it means...)

What I love about this song, and why it makes me think of Autumn is it's consistency.  It starts off with a simple progression...(not sure if that's the right musical term) that doesn't really change or falter throughout the song.  There is some build and rise to the music, but that opening bit carries the whole song.

Autumn is the steady season to me.  There is a clear marking of the season's progression.  The leaves begin to change, then they fall, the temp drops little by little, night advances sooner and sooner.  And this song does that for me emotionally.  It starts with that guitar, and it never lets up.  Other things are added, but that bit stays the same.

And, as I've said before, Autumn is my romantic season.  Not just for the love stories etc, but that bigger idea of romance.  But this song speaks more about the love part.  And that's okay.  Because love is awesome.  I mean really awesome.  Full of awe.  There is a wonder and mystery to it.  I don't think that should ever leave a romance.  Even 60 years down the road.  You might know each other by the back of your respective hands, but love keep something hidden.

This song is a simple and devoted declaration of love.  To be there in the everyday.  The common.  Till the end.  Not when you give up.  Or decide it's time for a change.  But, 'till the end.  I'd be lying if I said I didn't hope for that.  Someday.

So, take this song, go for a stroll with your sweetie, child, or pet.  Who ever your affections get showered upon.  Love 'em till the end.

grace, peace + hope
-Jesse

58/59 - Imagine/She Must Be Worth Losing

This song was one I heard in a movie preview, but it wasn't until a friend  pointed it out that I really noticed it.  I wasn't quite as into watching them online at the time, so it was hit or miss if I saw one.  Unless at the theater.  So, on second thought, maybe I didn't see the trailer for this movie that had this song...

The movie has become one of my top 13 movies.  Finding Neverland is the story of J.M. Barrie creating the tale of Peter Pan

Song 58
        "Come On" by Ben Jelen from the album, Give It All Away

This movie came out in 2004, and I tracked down the instrumental version used in the movie trailer.  I don't really care for the version with vocals.  Which, is what that link gets you.  But when this song really struck me was in 2007, I was a September night and I was thinking about a project I was working on for the church I was going to.

What filled my mind were images and stories that had me quite moved and in tears.  I made a music video to try and relate what my mind's eye saw.  Here's a link to that video.  I did tailor it to work into my project so there are shots of the church at the end.  But I think the idea and emotions can go beyond that.

I just took moments from video and movies to convey this image and story.  Credit belongs to all the people who made these movies and videos.

Hope you enjoy!

--


This next song doesn't have as interesting a story.  But it's still a good song.






It's also from a movie, but this one was actually used in the movie.  A little movie that captured my attention like nothing had since Jurassic Park.  This movie was a pulse pounding thrill ride that came out in the early days of May 1996.  Oh the days of grunge, hooded flannels, and mosh pits.  -sigh-

The movie was Twister.  Helen Hunt and her crew of storm chasers going after tornadoes all over Oklahoma in the span of a day or so.  Developing a device that would collect data from inside the forces of nature.  I was impressed with the soundtrack, and bought it.  Quickly learning for the first time the difference between "soundtrack," and "score."  The CD I bought was full of alternative rock songs that were featured in the movie.  Not the instrumental score.  But I kept it.  Several songs keeping me interested.

Song 59
        "Talula" by Tori Amos from the Twister Soundtrack

While the movie came out in spring, and I saw it many times that summer, this song makes me think of Autumn.  I don't know if I can explain this one as well as others, but it just paints pictures of erratically falling leaves, and shifting Autumnal landscapes.  From hills and mountains to rolling plains and fields.

So I'm gonna leave it at that for now.

Enjoy!

grace, peace + hope-Jesse

57 - Truth or Consequence, Say it Aloud

This song always makes me think of football.  And football (in America) is primarily played in Autumn.  Now, I'm not a huge football fan.  I don't dislike it, but I'm not the guy who gets stoked to go watch the game.  My brothers can get into that.

But this makes me think of football because of a movie that it was used in.  Now, I did know the song before the movie, so there is that.  Because this movie isn't the best.  Meaning, it's an okay story with moderate acting.

I'm talking about that classic 90's high school football flick, Varsity Blues.  The song?

Song 57

        "My Hero" from the album The Colour and the Shape by Foo Fighters


I'd be lying if I said this song isn't what made me like this movie even at all.  But for some reason it kinda makes up for the rest that is lacking.  Yeah, I like this song that much.

So, today's song is brought to you by a sport I'm not over into, from a movie I only kinda like.

But this song is great for Fall.  And Foo Fighters are great any time.  But just imagine this song to those Sports illustrated highlight videos they used to do.  I dunno, maybe they did one with this song too.

I will say this, athletes aren't my heroes.  I have a few of those.  One in particular is a fellow named Jim Elliot.  Look him up his story is amazing.  Especially...well.  Look his wife up too.


Alright.  That's it for today.

grace, peace + hope
-Jesse

56 - Out in the Streets Just Dipped in Fate

I came across this song last year.  I'm not sure when.  But it was because of a commercial for one of the Disney parks.  There was a pretty catchy tune and I quite liked it.  So, as usual, I sought and found the song and band.

This is not that song.  That song is more of a Spring/Summer song.  However, that song lead me to the album that lead me to this song.

It was a band I was familiar with previously because of a song that had gotten a lot of attention a few years ago.  But, I'm digressing or something.

Song 56
        "Fear" from the album Waking Up, by OneRepublic

This song is one that tonally puts me in the mind of Autumn.  Particularly late November.  Surprise!  I didn't want to wait that long.  The beat and piano is what really sends me there.  As bad as this might sound, it reminds me of Bugs Bunny cartoons doing Hiawatha.  Yes.  This song makes me think of Native Americans and no, not Thanksgiving.

There is just this kind of driving beat.  Like a waterfall going on in this song.  I really like it.

Then, the lyrics themselves...are relatively simple, but convey a fairly deep meaning.  I think so anyway:

When we were children we'd say
That we don't the meaning of
Fear, fear, fear,
Fear, fear, fear
We don't know the meaning of...

When we were children we'd say That we don't know the meaning of
Fear, fear, fear Fear, fear, fear We don't know the meaning of

Read more: ONEREPUBLIC - FEAR LYRICS

When we were children we'd say That we don't know the meaning of
Fear, fear, fear Fear, fear, fear We don't know the meaning of

Read more: ONEREPUBLIC - FEAR LYRICS

 I really like this.  I think it's kinda true.  We might have gotten scared as kids, but we didn't really know what that meant.  We didn't know what real fear could look like.  It's a nostalgic sentiment that I really enjoy this time of year.  To look back with those rosy colored glasses at childhood and the innocence and adventures I used to have.

So, here you go.  Face your fears, let 'em out.  The only hold you back.  Live like a child again when you only have hope and eyes for the future!

grace, peace + hope
-Jesse

Read more: ONEREPUBLIC - FEAR LYRICS

When we were children we'd say That we don't know the meaning of
Fear, fear, fear Fear, fear, fear We don't know the meaning of

Read more: ONEREPUBLIC - FEAR LYRICS

Read more: ONEREPUBLIC - FEAR LYRICS

When we were children we'd say That we don't know the meaning of
Fear, fear, fear Fear, fear, fear We don't know the meaning of

Read more: ONEREPUBLIC - FEAR LYRICS

55 - You've Got to Burn to Shine

Today's post is going to be short and fun. 

I remember hearing this song once or twice, as it's a theme song to a wildly popular HBO show.  I only saw the show a few times, but this song stuck out to me.  Good friends of mine, the Jahnkes, were fans of the show, and they were who I watched it with.

But, I'll never forget driving with them from Joliet, IL to Springfield, MO for Evangel University's homecoming one October.  Sadly...I can't remember which year.  It was 2006 or 07.   Early on in the trip I put this track on my iPod, pumped it into the car stereo and Michelle really got into it.  I think she liked the show the most.

It was a good trip.

So, Michelle, this one is for you today!

Song 55
       "Woke Up This Morning" by A3from their 1997 album, Exile on Coldharbour Lane

PS - the show was The Sopranos.

54 - What We Just Tasted We Somehow Still Miss

I have always loved Disney movies.  Even now in my 30's I still find them captivating.  I tend to miss the hand drawn cell animation from the likes of Lion King, Aladdin, and Beauty & the Beast.  But with their latest CGI offerings int Tangled and Brave, they have finally captured (to my eyes) the look and spirit of classic Disney.

And while music has almost always been an equal part of the package, not every movie is as memorable for the songs.  While I enjoy the musical style of the previously mentioned films, I like it better when the music is background or informative, and not sung by the characters.  As they do in Tarzan, and Brave.

If you haven't guessed, I'm angling toward a song from Brave today.  I was torn as the three songs with proper lyrics are all great.  I went with:

Song 54
        "Into the Open Air" by Julie  Fowlis from the Brave - Soundtrack

The song and movie tie all into that running theme of "fantasy/adventure works best in the Fall."  This

pulls that in wonderfully.  Especially since the first time I heard the artist was on one of the trailers for Brave, singing in Scottish Gaelic.  It was haunting and captivating.

This song is sung in English, but it's still impressive.  It's not an overly complicated song, but the lyrics are quite poignant.  Especially if you've seen the movie and know the story.

And now these walls come crumbling down
And I can feel my feet on the ground
Can we carry this love that we share
Into the open air?

 If you know the movie you know this isn't just simply romantic schmoozing.  It's much deeper and meaningful.  I don't want to spoil the movie.  Go buy it.  It's good.  Really good.

Above all, this song feels hopefully and inspiring.  So go, be inspired and filled with hope.

grace, peace, + hope
-Jesse

53 - See I've Got this Woman Here

Once again I return to my go-to show for great music, Chuck.  The creators/writers/whoevers that picked the music for this show just had their stuff together and chose great stuff.  This particular song comes from season 2, episode 2.  A great episode.  Watch it.  I mean the entire series.  Go.  Now.  Enjoy.

Done?  Good, well if you did watch it, there's a strong chance by 90 Songs of Autumn series is over and you've missed the rest of this post while it was fresh.  Hope you like stale donuts.

If you didn't go watch the show...well, kudos on getting the goods fresh, but really, you're missing out on a funny/moving/action filled/romance laden show of awesomeness.  I think Buy More has all season available...if you need something to do later.

Song 53
        "Love It All" from the Kooks album Konk.

There is a huge reason I like this song and why it fits into Autumn for me.  That reason is the book The Black Cauldron, by Lloyd Alexander.  It's the second book in a five book cycle called The Chronicles Prydain.  If you aren't going to watch Chuck...this would be one option for a better use of time.  Seriously.  Read the series.  But this time...after reading my blog.

Why does this song make me think of a high fantasy series of books for children set in ancient Wales inspired landscapes?  I'll tell you why.  In Cauldron, the heroic companions seek out an evil cauldron to destroy it, preventing the creation of undead warriors known as the Cauldron Born.  The primary character, Taran (a young teenager) is accompanied by several friends.  Some old, some new.  One is the wise and learned Adaon.  He is a young man, I take to be in his mid to late twenties, but is an old soul.  He longs to be done with battle and strife and return to his lady fair, and to tend his garden and pursue peaceful things of life.

Adaon says this to Taran at one point:

“There is much to be known, and above all much to be loved, be it the turn of the seasons or the shape of a river pebble. Indeed, the more we find to love, the more we add to the measure of our hearts.”

The more we find to love, the more we add to the measure of our hearts.  I mean, wow!  This has stuck with me since I read this book at the age of 11.  So, for 2/3rds of my life it's been with me.  I constantly think back on it, and try to apply it to my life.

This song, while not as profound, makes me think of this quote.  The, "love it all, love it all, love it all..." just echoes this concept to me.  Keep finding more things to love.  And you will love more.  Like in the Zelda games.  You can increase your life bar by finding pieces of heart.  You get enough and your life meter gets bigger.  In life, the more you find to love, the more capacity for love you'll have.

And the whole Autumn thing...well, that where these books always take me.  It goes with the whole Autumn/Fantasy mindset that is just a part of how my mind works.

So, go!  Watch some Chuck, read some Prydain, or listen to this song, or find something else, but find something new to love and increase your capacity for love (not specifically the romantic kind either people.)  Cause if there is one thing this world needs desperately...it's more love and kindness.

Love it all.  Love it all.  Love.  It.  All.

grace, peace + hope
-Jesse

52 - I Want to Feel Good Too

Another show that I've enjoyed the occasional song from is House, M.D.  I really liked this show up to the final season, which had it's moments...and ended the series well, but the season itself wasn't up to par in my opinion.  One of the best things to come out of this season was the final song played over the final scene of the final episode.

I won't spoil the ending if you have any desire to watch the show, but the song is surprisingly fitting lyrically and emotionally for this finale.

Song 52
       "Euphoria" from the self-titled album from band, Motopony

What I really like about this song is it's almost monotone persistence.  It just keeps moving.  Not a lot of ups and downs.  Just moving forward.

This is a great song for a day like we had yesterday here in Central, PA.  It was sunny, in the low 60's and all round gorgeous.  Drop the windows down, drive out through the hills and creeks and go for a hike.  Which is what a friend and I did.  It was a great hike at Boyd Big Tree.

I can see in my mind this song being played as a family leaves a home with some mild sadness and drives across country.  Trees flashing by the window as a child or two looks out.  But there is a comfort in the drive, that something better is waiting at the other end of the journey.

That's my two bits.

Enjoy!

grace, peace + hope
-Jesse

51 - Hope and Pray That You'll Never Need Me

In honor of the day, today's song is focused toward veterans.  So let me first of all say to all who have served this country, or given the ultimate sacrifice for the rest of us:

THANK YOU

There is a long line of soldiers in my family.  All my uncles and father served.  My sister, her daughter, and my oldest brother's son served (the niece and nephew are currently.)  So a big thanks to my own family.

I remember hearing this song in a movie theater in Illinois about four years ago.  It was during the pre-previews slideshow thing that was starting to feature full motion video etc.  I remember hearing the opening guitar and thinking this is cool, then the song unfolded with a powerful video.

In the end the video was a recruiting video for the National Guard, but it still conveyed a potent message about serving the people of the United States.  Watching it again just now had me on the verge of tears.  This isn't some flag-waving, America can do no wrong, kind of post, but it is a tribute from respect and honor to those who have protected it, fought for it, lived-bleed-and died for it.  For you and me.

Song 51
        "Citizen/Soldier" from 3 Doors Down self-titled album.

The chorus of the song is quite moving:

On that day when you need your brothers and sisters to care,
I'll be right here.
Citizen soldiers holding the light for the ones that we guide from the dark of despair.
Standing on guard for the ones that we sheltered,
We'll always be ready because we will always be there.

I think I'll leave this post at that.  Watch the video, listen to the song.  It speaks for itself.

grace, peace + hope & thanks!
-Jesse

50 - Righteous Dollar Bills

Last summer there was a trailer for the movie, Horrible Bosses.  I have to admit, the concept seemed funny, and I really like Charlie Day on It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia.  But more than the movie was a bit of music used toward the end.

There was something about it that just really grabbed my attention.  So I went to the trusty internets and downloaded it.  I didn't see the movie until is hit RedBox, and it wasn't that memorable.  But, at least it brought me to this song:

Song 50

        "Ain't No Rest for the Wicked" from the band's self-titled album, Cage the Elephant
It's not a song that strikes me as profoundly as a Mumford & Sons song, nor does it take me on a great adventure.  But it has the driving, keep moving, commonality push to it.  It just feels like, "any other day."  There is some comfort in that.

And that is something I tend to need at this point in the season.  The leaves are mostly gone, the sun spends more and more time hiding behind grey skies, and the cold really starts to get into the bones.  Not that I dislike any of those things...but it's a check to remind you that winter is coming.  No Game of Thrones pun intended.  But I'll take it.

That's it.  Just a simple story for a simple song.  Enjoy!

grace, peace + hope
-Jesse

49 - But in the Dark I Have No Name

Two ideas, thoughts, things I cling to with all my heart are:  Hope and Wandering.

Hope is a powerful concept.  It can give you wings to soar through the sky, or give you the grit to put one foot in front of the other when you have nothing left.  Then do it again.  It will surround your heart with joy at the goodness that you encounter, or bolster you up when the darkness threatens to engulf you.

Hope is the warmth of light in the good times, and the flicker of illumination in utter night.  I'm not going to preach but there is a specific hope I have that supplements all the rest I have.


Wandering is something altogether different.  I can find hope in wandering.  I don't like staying in one place for too long.  I get the appeal of putting down roots, and settling in.  There is a part of me that desires that.  But the larger part of me needs to keep moving.  Not because I am compelled to, or feel driven to, but a desire to see and experience something...different.

Wandering give you the chance to just keep going, keep seeing, and keep meeting new folks and places.

Today's song catches both those ideas.

Song 49
        "Hopeless Wanderer" from Mumford & Sons latest, Babel.

There is so much in each of their songs.  It's been hard to not just do every song off this album.  And their first.  They are pretty much definitive of the season for me, but also work year round too.  The intro piano just hooks me in like a current.  Before you know it the river is pulling you further and faster, until you hit the chorus that turns into thrilling white water.

I love the lyrics in the bridge the most:

So when your hope's on fire
But you know your desire
Don't hold a glass over the flame
Don't let your heart grow cold
I will call you by name
I will share your road

For me this feels like someone else is speaking.  Encouraging and challenging the voice of the rest of the song.  There is such a hopefulness to this song that just lifts me up, and pulls me a long...depending on the day.

grace, peace & hope
-Jesse

48 - How 'bout the Power to Move You?

Every now and then a song comes a long that just clicks.  I can't remember when I heard this particular song for the first time, but I know it was awesome.  It was before I moved to Illinois at the very end of '05.  So...that's it for the vague part.

This song just takes me to that place of "awesome."

I also remember jamming out to this in vehicles with one of my brothers from another mothers, Mark Jahnke.  Yeah dude.  (I totally just name dropped you!)

It has a lot of the common themes from this list.  Light, guitar pick intro.  Build into a grand finale.  Inspires imagination and adventure.  It's just a fun song, that has surprisingly good talent.  I was surprised to learn that this actor was really a musician.

Song 48
        "Wonderboy" from the musical styling of Tenacious D on their self-titled album.

Epic.  That's what this song is.  That word gets thrown around a lot, I'm almost ashamed to use it, but it truly fits this song.  It's quite comical too.  As it tells the story about how the very band formed, but with quite the embellished spin.  Jack Black is himself, Wonderboy.  While his musical partner, Kyle Glass, is named in the tune as Young Nastyman.

The music video for it is also amazing.  Very Lord of the Rings, in style and imagery.

What makes me associate this with Autumn, is mainly the aforementioned common themes.  But really, the video is the kicker.  While  the lyrics of the song paint an almost superhero vibe, the song takes it to fantasy adventure.  The duo on some mysterious quest in the woods and mountains.  Prime recipe for my wanderingly imaginative noggin.

So, do yourself a favor.  Follow the link to the album above, download the song.  Or, if you are afraid of that strong a commitment, look it up on the video search of your choice.

Wonderboy.

Mucky, muck.

Yes.

grace, peace + hope
-Jesse

47 - Still I'm the One Who's Stupid

My good buddy Shawn introduced me to this song well over a decade ago.  I wasn't too impressed with much I had heard from this band.  Mainly because the few songs I had heard were insanely overplayed on the radio (which I was still listening to at that point.)

But when he played this song, can't remember if it was on a CD player at his place, or in a car with a portable player...but it really landed for me.

Landed?  What does that mean?  (and I'm asking...instead of deleting and writing something that makes sense)  So, here it is...we're past the mid point, and it's all down hill from here folks!!

Song 46
        "Motorcycle Drive By" from the self titled album Third Eye Blind
The gentle picking at the beginning makes me think of the old 70's movie Benji for some reason.  And the 70's tend to make me think of Autumn (I think I've gone down that road with the Asteroids Galaxy Tour.)  So, Benji, the dog.  And the 70's.  I don't know but that's where my mind goes.

I also get this imagery of a guy driving in to the city from the fairly rural suburbs on his motorcycle.  See what I did there?  I used part of the title, and made sense out of it!

There is clearly some sort of love story/romance element to this song, but it sounds kinda bitter, over, or at the endish point.  But that isn't what really gets me in the song. It's more just the music and the sounds of the vocals that make me go all Fall.

That's all I got for today.  Enjoy!

grace, peace + hope
-Jesse

46 - And It's Easy to Ignore

Today is election day in America.  So today's post takes that into account.  Nothing takes the fun out of Autumn like campaign ads.  Thank goodness I don't really watch TV on TV.  The few things I see on-line are bad enough, I don't care who the candidate is.  Enough already.

It ends tomorrow.

I'm not going to preach about doing your civic duty.  Personally, I'm not happy with any of the choices.  And don't get me started on the whole electoral college thing,  cause that's never going to make sense for me.

So, let's take a listen...

Song 46
        "Leaders of the Free World" from the Leaders of the Free World album by Elbow.

I'm not going to say what this song is about.  Clearly there is some meat behind what he is singing about.  And some heat.  The thing that gets me the most is the chorus:

But the leaders of the free world
Are just little boys throwing stones
And it's easy to ignore
Till they're knocking on the door of your homes

 Indeed.

This song itself isn't particularly connect to Autumn for me in anyway.  I just knew I wanted to use it on Election day.  So no profoundity from me today.   Just a song, that to me, is kinda smacking these folks in the face with a limp wet fish.

grace, peace + hope
-Jesse

45 - Suiting Up for My Crowning Battle

I remember hearing this song when I downloaded the full album a few years ago.  Like yesterdays song, it kind of stood out as a bit different from the rest of this artists stuff.  But what really struck me was the lyrical content.  The music itself is also good.

There is a lot of imagery from the Bible in this song, which considering the artists childhood makes sense, but it's interesting because of the theme of the song.  I may be completely wrong, but this song sounds more like what is in the heart of this artist than what she is more commonly known for.  Just my thoughts, but it sounds like a page from her journal.

Song 45

        "Who Am I Living For" of the album Teenage Dream from Katy Perry

Phoenix, battle, writing on the wall, Esther, cross, heavens, flames...

This is potent and powerful imagery far beyond the typical bubble gum and pin-up presentation Perry normally gives off.

What I really like about this song is the internal struggle between good and bad.  How she seems to be wanting to go toward 'the heavens' but is hounded by the flames calling her back.  It something I think many people struggle with but rarely like to admit.

The pull to Autumn is just the brooding overtone of the music and the weightiness of the lyrics.  It has an epic scope, with the visuals of the phoenix and 'crowning battle' ideas.  It fits well into the theme of adventure and wonder that ties into this season for me.

So enjoy a different speed for the pop-princess and listen to the strength in her voice beyond the normal cotton candy sugary sweetness that she is known for.

grace, peace + hope-Jesse

44 - You Keep Your Distance, I Can't Deny You.

This song came across my playlist yesterday while I was working.  It struck me, that even though the time I associate with this song is early summer 2002, it gives off a very Autumnal emotion.

It's quite a different flavor for this band.  Perhaps that's part of why I like it.  I like when bands do something different every now and then, and it sounds good.  Now, this song is no masterpiece.  But it strikes the right chord in me for grey rainy days in early November.

Song 44
        "Hold On" from Limp Bizkit's album, Chocolate Starfish and the Hot Dog Flavored Water

Did he just say Limp Bizkit?

Yes I did.  I'm not a huge fan, but at the time in my life when I came across this album it just kinda stuck.  So...take it or leave it.

The music just gives off this essence of loss and sorrow.  Yet he keeps pleading to hold on.  That's it.  I just like it.  There is no deeper story or imagery for this one.  It just fit the day yesterday, in atmosphere.

grace, peace + hope
-Jesse

43 - You've Had Your Fill of Sinking

It was the Autumn of 2006.  I'm sure I had heard the song before then, but that's when this song, and band, ingrained itself in my mind.  I'll spare you the gory details, but I was having a bit of a rough spot in life.  Not to say it was life altering, or anything that drastic.  But I was just struggling to keep my head above water in finances, emotions, and just about everything else.

Hearing this song on the radio (it happens occasionally) and a few other ones from the album, I decided it was worth a download.  I remember driving the now long, bleak drive from my home in Lockport, to work in Plainfield (Illinois.)  That drive seemed to go on forever.  Now, I know that many people drive much further daily, but hey, that was my hike so let me have it.  Through the tiny little burg of the 'port, up over the bridge that freaked me out of my ever loving mind, the long stretch between perky suburban sub-divisions (we call them developments in PA) past misty woods and along the creek into Plainfield, through that little hamlet to my office by the power lines and train tracks.

One day, date unknown, this song came on my iPod when I was on this trek.  I was feeling quite low, and for some reason this song picked me up.  Or encouraged me.

Song 43
        "Move Along"  the titular song from All-American Rejects album, Move Along

This tune just put a smile on my face, and I thought...Okay, I will move along.  Or as the lovable goof, Dory from Finding Nemo would say, "Just keep swimming.  Just keep swimming."  My mom would say, "Plod, plod, plod!"  Or perhaps you'll like what Geoff Chaucer (by way of A Knight's Tale and Paul Bettany) described, "To trudge: the slow, weary, depressing yet determined walk of a man who has nothing left in life except the impulse to simply soldier on."

So, I did.

This song has become one of those that just always gets me motivated and moving.  To just, move along, and not let the negative stuff bring me down. 

Enjoy!

grace, peace + hope
-Jesse

42 - Sleight of Hand and Twist of Fate

There comes a time when you just have to get to this band.  I don't understand the level of passion or distaste people have for them.  But I mostly only hear about people who love 'em or hate 'em.

This song really stands out to me as the first song I learned to play on bass.  Pretty much the only song I could play well, as it's quite simple.  But the song itself is a great one for reflection and encouragement.  Well, I think.

Song 42
        "With Or Without You" - from U2 and their album "The Joshua Tree"

This song just works for me in this season.  Especially today.  It's got that cool, grey skies, the weather is beginning to chill quite nicely.  The song really speaks for itself.  I guess most do.  I don't know if I can really add anything to it.

I really love the way it expresses the frustration of not having the person and needing them.  Or whatever the song is about.  For me it can carry a spiritual message, which I think it does speak to.

Go listen, hear with your own ears and let the song wash over.  There is a peaceful frustration, with a longing hope.

grace, peace + hope
-Jesse

41 - All Saints

Alas, October is over and done...but we move on into the deeper recesses of Autumn, and arrive at All Saints Day.  Not a holiday I actually practice...but it leads me to today's song.

I first heard this song in a little movie called The Boondock Saints.  I don't remember when I first saw it, but this song really jumped out at me.

Song 41
        "The Blood of Cu Chulainn" composed by Mychael Danna.

The reason I picked this song for today, is because the sequel was subtitled "All Saints Day."  So there is my big flying leap.

I do have a real connection to this song in Autumn.  I was living in Lockport, IL from mid September until Christmas 2006, as the home I was to be living in was under construction.  I took a stroll down my street into Dellwood Park in mid November.  I popped my headphones in, excuse me, earbuds, and turned on some movie soundtrack music.

After walking through some woods I came into a clearing as this song came on.  It made me feel as if I was some adventurer exploring Ireland (sorry Illinois...not even close.)  The music just transported me to another place.  Cause music can do that.  So amidst the dying trees and paling grass I was off on another adventure...even if only in my mind.

I really like this song, because it has an uplifting Irish lilt to it, and just pushes you onward.  I think that's what I'm needing when it gets to this point on the calendar.  Just a big push to keep going through the final 2 months of the year.

So...today, enjoy some Irishness and good music.

grace, peace + hope
-Jesse